Embrun
40 km from Gap by the N94 road.
Discover Embrun, a pretty town nestled between lakes and mountains in the Hautes-Alpes
15 km from Les Orres and 38 km from Gap, Embrun overlooks the Durance valley from its rocky promontory, facing Lake Serre-Ponçon.
Nicknamed “the Nice of the Alps” for its mild, sunny climate (more than 300 days of sunshine per year), it combines historical heritage, unspoiled nature, and water sports. A former episcopal city, Embrun was long a major religious center.
Its imposing cathedral, arcaded houses and medieval streets bear witness to its former prosperity. Today, it is also a popular spot for sailing, kitesurfing and triathlons.
An exceptional natural setting
The town is located at an altitude of 870 m, on a plateau overlooking the Durance River and offering breathtaking views of Lake Serre-Ponçon. The surrounding mountains—notably the Morgon and the Écrins massif—frame this magnificent panorama.
A local anecdote tells that in the 19th century, Embrun had its own “inland sea” long before the creation of the Serre-Ponçon dam: spectacular floods of the Durance River flooded the plains and fertilized the agricultural land. Today, the lake attracts tourists and sports enthusiasts, as well as birdwatchers who come to observe herons and black kites.
Stroll through Embrun
Start your visit at Place Saint-Marcellin, the lively heart of the historic center, surrounded by colorful facades and sunny terraces. Then walk up the pedestrian street Clovis Hugues to the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-du-Réal, a 13th-century Provençal Gothic gem whose Romanesque bell tower can be seen from miles away.
Continue on to the Archbishop's Garden, a former episcopal park that has been turned into a public promenade with a bird's-eye view of the valley and mountains. Below, the Embrun lake is a summer hotspot for families, with supervised beaches, a water slide, and a water sports center.
Must-see places
Notre-Dame-du-Réal Cathedral
Built in the 13th century, this is the largest church in the Hautes-Alpes, famous for its pink marble portal and monumental organ.
Archbishop's Garden
A shaded park offering spectacular views of the Durance River and the surrounding peaks.
Embrun Lake
Landscaped beach, lifeguarded swimming in summer, water sports, children's playground.
Embrunais Museum
Collections on local history, religious art, and Alpine life.
Serre-Ponçon Lake
Three kilometers away, Serre-Ponçon Lake is a superb reservoir ideal for sailing, kitesurfing, fishing, and cruises.
Local life and events
Market: Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Place Barthelon and in the adjacent streets, with local producers, cheese makers, butchers, and artisans.
Medieval Festival: In August, the center is transformed into a medieval village with parades, encampments, and shows.
Embrunman: internationally renowned triathlon, every August 15.
Lake Festival: fireworks and water activities in summer.
What to see
Col de Vars (2,108 m).
The Natural Reserve of Val d'Escrein: from Guillestre, take the D902 heading for Col de Varss
Just before St Marcellin, take a little road on your left signposted to the reserve (car park charge)
Leisure activities
Skiing in one of the nearby ski resorts Les Orres, Risoul-Vars, Réallon, Crévoux.
Ski touring, Snow shoeing. Mountaineering.
White water sports : rafting, canoraft, kayakraft, canyoning.
Nautical sports on the lake : windsurfing, catamaran, rowing, canoe..
Climbing (Via-ferrata) Paragliding.
Hiking:
Lac de l'Hivernet 2,352m, le Mont Guillaume (2,550m) VTT (580 km of waymarked routes in the region)
Exhibition about Embrun's past : Le Passé de l'Embrunais, Place de l'Archevêché
(open all year in the afternoon except Sundays and bank holidays).
Market (every Saturday and Wednesday morning)
Hotels
In a peaceful setting, close to a lake that has a beach and recreational area
Rooms are peaceful and offer a warm & friendly atmosphere -TV TNT channels
Heated indoor swimming pool and a Jacuzzi - Restaurant
Accomodations
Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
Holiday rentals.
Campsites.
Practical information
By road: from Gap, take the N94 towards Briançon, exit Embrun.
By train: Embrun SNCF train station, Briançon–Marseille line.
Your questions about the village of Embrun
You have sent us several questions about the commune of Embrun. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Why is Embrun called “the Nice of the Alps”?
With its mild, sunny climate, lively terraces, and flower-filled gardens, Embrun has a Mediterranean feel... at an altitude of 870 m, surrounded by mountains.
When is the Embrun market?
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., on Place Barthelon and in the surrounding streets. You'll find fresh produce, mountain cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, and local crafts.
Can you swim in Embrun?
Yes, at the lake and Serre-Ponçon lake, with supervised beaches in summer. Water sports available: sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, kitesurfing.
How do I get to Embrun?
Embrun is easily accessible by train from Paris and Marseille. By car, take the A51 to Sisteron, then the D942 towards Embrun. ZOU transport lines serve the town from Gap. Allow 10 hours for the journey from Paris.
How can I get to Embrun without a car?
By train via the Briançon–Marseille line. Local buses then serve Savines-le-Lac, Les Orres, and Guillestre.
What are the must-see viewpoints?
The Archbishop's Garden for its view of the Durance River, the cathedral's belvedere, and the heights of Morgon to admire Lake Serre-Ponçon.
What are the culinary specialties in Embrun?
Embrun's iconic specialties include tourtons and ravioles du Champsaur, authentic local products. The local cuisine features goat cheese, mountain charcuterie, and smoked trout. Restaurants such as L'Ogow showcase traditional Hautes-Alpes cuisine. For an authentic taste, try the mountain honey and artisanal jams.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Crots (5km),Chateauroux-les-Alpes (7km) and Savines le lac (10km).